Alienation and Wellbeing
By Chris Yuill
Published
Dec 21, 2023Page count
170 pagesISBN
978-1529219296Dimensions
234 x 156 mmImprint
Bristol University PressPublished
Dec 21, 2023Page count
170 pagesISBN
978-1529219302Dimensions
234 x 156 mmImprint
Bristol University PressPublished
Dec 21, 2023Page count
170 pagesISBN
978-1529219302Dimensions
234 x 156 mmImprint
Bristol University Press
Alienation and Wellbeing
Marx argued that capitalist society acts against the core capacities, skills and talents of human beings, and that it also limits their realisation or channels them into activities related to profit rather than need.
Bringing Marx’s theory of alienation forward to the present day, this book uniquely links it to health and well-being. Using case studies and vignettes of workers across different industries, it reveals their lived experiences, offering crucial insights into the insidious ways in which capitalism continues to damage human well-being.
This is a resounding call for how society can change for the better.
“Like previous scholars who generated rigorous analysis with valuable insights using historical materialism, Yuill productively applies a Marxist understanding to the wellbeing 'paradigm', demonstrating it’s another case of the ‘emperor’s new clothes’.” Gregor Gall, Universities of Glasgow and Leeds
“A compelling exploration of alienation in modern society and its relevance to social work, with a particular focus on Marx's theory of alienated labour.” Kevin B. Anderson, University of California, Santa Barbara
“From its insightful analysis to its pragmatic implications, Alienation and Wellbeing is a vital resource for researchers focussing on health inequalities, educators in the field of health research, medical sociology thinkers and policy planners alike.” Sociology of Health & Illness Journal
Chris Yuill is Head of Sociology at Robert Gordon University.
Preface
1. What is Alienation?
2. Responding to Criticisms of Alienation Theory
3. Alienation and Wellbeing
4. Case Study: Social workers, the Compassionate Self, and Disappointed Jugglers
5. Is Alienation Theory Still Relevant?
6. Beyond Alienation?
